Principales técnicas quirúrgicas para el médico general / Main surgical techniques for the general practitioner

Existen múltiples técnicas y procedimientos quirúrgicos en la práctica clínica que todo médico general debería conocer y manejar ante una situación de urgencia que involucre la resolución inmediata. El no actuar en una situación emergente, ya sea por inexperiencia o desconocimiento puede poner en riesgo la vida del paciente. Entre estos procedimientos, podemos encontrar las suturas (y sus distintos tipos), la paracentesis, la apendicectomía (abierta y laparoscópica), la punción lumbar y la cesárea. Es por esto que se creó este artículo de educación médica utilizando un método explicativo de las principales técnicas quirúrgicas de forma resumida y concisa, basado en la literatura disponible, con el fin de servir como guía de bolsillo y revisión rápida para estudiantes, internos y médicos que deben enfrentarse a un procedimiento quirúrgico que no puede ser diferido.

There are multiple surgical techniques and procedures in the day to day clinical practice that every general practitioner should know how to do and handle in an emergency situation that requires immediate resolution. Failure to act in an emergent situation, either due to inexperience or ignorance, can put a patient's life at risk. Between these procedures there are sutures (and its variations), paracentesis, appendectomy (open and laparoscopic), lumbar puncture and cesarean delivery. That is why this medical education article was developed using an explicative method of the main surgical techniques in a summarized and concise way, based on the available literature, in order to serve as a pocket guide and quick review for students, interns and doctors who must face a surgical procedure that cannot be deferred.

Assembly and use of a low-cost paracentesis simulator for the teaching of puncture and drainage of ascites / Montagem e uso de simulador de paracentese de baixo custo - aplicabilidade no ensino de punção e drenagem de ascite

ABSTRACT Objectives: to describe the assembly of a low-cost paracentesis simulator and evaluate its effectiveness, acceptance and impact on the learning of medical students. Methodology: a paracentesis simulator was built using a mannequin and materials such as plastic bottles, Velcro, polyvinyl chloride sheets and silicone were used. A cross-sectional and experimental study was carried out with undergraduate medical students without previous practical experience with paracentesis, which sought to validate the model, evaluating its benefits in learning and obtaining technical skills. Results: after using the simulator there was an increase of 82.4% in the level of confidence in performing paracentesis in a patient, with 98% of respondents considering that the model fulfilled the simulator function with satisfaction, and 100% considering it useful as a teaching tool. Conclusion: the built simulator was effective as an educational resource, serving as an alternative to high-cost commercial models, allowing for greater accessibility in the use of this tool in medical education.

RESUMO Objetivos: descrever a montagem de simulador de paracentese de baixo custo e avaliar eficácia, aceitação e impacto no aprendizado de acadêmicos do curso de medicina. Método: um simulador de paracentese foi construído a partir de manequim e de materiais como garrafas plásticas, velcro, folhas de policloreto de vinila e silicone. Foi feito estudo transversal com estudantes da graduação do curso de medicina sem experiência real prévia com paracentese, que buscou validar o modelo, por meio da análise de benefícios no aprendizado e na obtenção de habilidades técnicas. Resultados: após o uso do simulador, observou-se aumento de 82,4% no nível de segurança na realização da paracentese em paciente, 98% dos pesquisados consideraram que o uso do modelo cumpriu com satisfação a função de simulador e 100% definiram-no útil como ferramenta de ensino. Conclusão: a montagem do simulador mostrou-se factível e eficaz como recurso educacional. Serviu como alternativa aos modelos comerciais de alto custo e permitiu maior acessibilidade do uso dessa ferramenta na educação médica.

Paracentese de alívio no domicílio: uma prática assistencial possível / Home relief paracentesis: a possible care practice / Paracentesis evacuadora domiciliaria: una práctica posible de cuidado

Introdução: A ascite é definida como um acúmulo de líquido na cavidade peritoneal e, em 75% dos casos, é causada por cirrose e hipertensão da veia porta de várias etiologias. Seu tratamento inclui restrição de fluidos, diurese e paracentese de grande volume. A paracentese de alívio é o procedimento de remoção de fluido ascítico da cavidade peritoneal com a finalidade de reduzir a pressão intra-abdominal e aliviar sintomas associados como dispneia, dor e desconforto abdominal. É uma técnica simples e segura que pode ser realizada em ambiente hospitalar e ambulatorial. A expansão dos Serviços de Atenção Domiciliar (SAD) no país oportunizou a realização de procedimentos de maior complexidade no domicílio podendo contribuir com o bem-estar de pacientes em cuidado paliativo domiciliar. Objetivo: Descrever o perfil de pacientes submetidos à paracentese de alívio em um SAD. Métodos: Estudo transversal, incluindo pacientes consecutivos que realizaram paracentese de alívio no domicílio entre os anos 2009 e 2017. Os dados foram coletados em prontuário. Para a análise descritiva dos dados estatísticos utilizou-se o Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v. 18.0 (SPSS). Resultados: A amostra foi composta por 15 pacientes, apresentando uma média do Índice de Comorbidade de Charlson de 8,1 (3-15). As neoplasias foram as principais causas de ascite nos pacientes acompanhados (80,2%). No período do estudo foram realizadas 48 paracenteses de alívio. Seis pacientes apresentaram sintomatologia clínica com necessidade de visita domiciliar (VD) não programada. Em relação às complicações do procedimento de paracentese, um paciente apresentou sangramento no local da punção. Todas as situações acima foram manejadas no domicílio. Em relação aos desfechos do atendimento no SAD, 53% dos pacientes necessitaram de reinternação hospitalar por piora clínica. Conclusões: A paracentese de alívio no domicílio mostra-se como uma prática segura, reduzindo idas desnecessárias a serviços de urgência/emergência e com bons índices de satisfação relatados pelos pacientes, desde que os profissionais sejam devidamente capacitados para realização do procedimento, com rotina e técnica instituída pelo SAD.

Introduction: Ascites can be defined as an accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and, in 75% of cases, is caused by cirrhosis and portal vein hypertension of different etiologies. Its treatment includes fluid restriction, diuresis and paracentesis. Relief paracentesis is a procedure that removes ascites fluid from peritoneal cavity, reduces intra-abdominal pressure and alleviate some symptoms such as dyspnea, pain, and abdominal discomfort. It is a simple and safe technique that can be performed in a hospital or outpatient setting. The expansion of home care services in our country has enabled the completion of more complex procedures at home and may contribute to the welfare of outpatients in palliative care. Objective: Describe the profile of outpatients undergoing relief paracentesis. Methods: Cross-sectional study, including consecutive patients of a public home care service who underwent home relief paracentesis between 2009 and 2017. Data were collected from medical records and the Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v. 18.0 (SPSS) was used for data analysis. Results: Sample consisted of 15 out patients. We observed an average of 8.1 (3-15) in Charlson Comorbidity Index and neoplasms were the main cause of ascites (80.2%). 48 relief paracenteses were performed during the period and six patients presented clinical symptomatology requiring unplanned home visit. Concerning complications of paracentesis procedure, only one patient had bleeding at the puncture site. All above situations were handled at home. Regarding outcomes of care, 53% of patients required hospital readmission because of clinical worsening. Conclusions: Home relief paracentesis is a safe practice and can reduce unnecessary procedures at an emergency room. It is important that professionals are properly trained to perform the procedure with routine and technique established by a home care service.

Introducción: La ascitis se define como una acumulación de líquido en la cavidad peritoneal y en el 75% de los casos es causada por cirrosis e hipertensión venosa portal de diversas etiologías. Su tratamiento incluye restricción de líquidos, diuresis y paracentesis de gran volumen. La paracentesis evacuadora es el procedimiento para eliminar el líquido ascítico de la cavidad peritoneal para reducir la presión intraabdominal y aliviar los síntomas asociados como disnea, dolor y molestias abdominales. Es una técnica simple y segura que se puede realizar en un hospital y en ambulatorio. La expansión de los Servicios de Atención Domiciliaria (SAD) en el país ha permitido completar procedimientos más complejos en el domicilio y puede contribuir al bienestar de los pacientes en cuidados paliativos domiciliarios. Objetivos: Describir el perfil de pacientes sometidos a paracentesis evacuadora en un SAD. Métodos: Estudio transversal, con pacientes consecutivos que se sometieron a paracentesis evacuadora en el domicilio entre 2009 y 2017. Los datos se obtuvieron de los registros médicos. Para el análisis descriptivo de los datos estadísticos utilizamos el Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v. 18.0 (SPSS). Resultados: La muestra consistió en 15 pacientes, con un índice de comorbilidad de Charlson promedio de 8,1 (3-15). Las neoplasias fueron las principales causas de ascitis en los pacientes seguidos (80,2%). Durante el período de estudio, se realizaron 48 paracentesis evacuadoras. Seis paracentesis presentaron sintomatología clínica que requería una visita domiciliaria (VD) no planificada. Con respecto a las complicaciones del procedimiento de paracentesis, un paciente tuvo sangrado en el sitio de punción. Todo lo anterior se manejó en el domicilio. En cuanto a los resultados de la atención en el SAD, el 53% de los pacientes requirieron reingreso hospitalario por empeoramiento clínico. Conclusiones: La paracentesis evacuadora en el domicilio es una práctica segura que reduce los viajes innecesarios a los servicios de urgencia/emergencia y con una alta satisfacción del paciente, siempre que los profesionales estén debidamente capacitados para realizar el procedimiento, con la rutina y la técnica establecidas por el SAD.

A dúvida: tireotoxicose versus hipertireoidismo descompensado / The doubt: Thyrotoxicosis X Decompensated Hyperthyroidism

Relata-se o caso de paciente do sexo masculino, atendido em um hospital universitário, após quadro duvidoso e arrastado de alteração cardíaca e hipertireoidiana, com a propedêutica sequencial própria para crise tireotóxica. Destaca-se a necessidade de identificação precoce da apresentação clínica, com atendimento de emergência, e a capacidade da realização de diagnósticos diferenciais com alterações cardíacas primárias, evitando-se sequelas e desfechos inesperados.

We report the case of a male patient seen in a University Hospital after a dubious and protracted picture of cardiac and hyperthyroid alteration, with adequate sequential propaedeutic for thyrotoxic crisis. The need for early identification of clinical presentation with emergency care, and the ability to perform differential diagnoses with primary cardiac changes are highlighted, to avoid unexpected sequelae and outcomes.

Development and evaluation of a training model for paracentetic suprapubic cystostomy and catheterization

OBJECTIVES: Minimally invasive paracentetic suprapubic cystostomy is a technique that should be learned by all surgical trainees and residents. This study aimed to develop a self-made training model for paracentetic suprapubic cystostomy and placement of the suprapubic catheter and then to evaluate its effectiveness in training fourth-year medical students. METHODS: Medical students were divided into an experimental group receiving comprehensive training involving literature, video, and model use and a control group receiving all the same training protocols as the experimental group except without hands-on practice using the model. Each student's performance was video-recorded, followed by subjective and objective evaluations by urology experts and statistical analysis. RESULTS: All students completed the surgical procedures successfully. The experimental group's performance scores were significantly higher than those of the control group (median final performance scores of 91.0 vs. 86.8, respectively). Excellent scores were achieved by more students in the experimental group than in the control group (55% vs. 20%), and fewer poor scores were observed in the experimental group than in the control group (5% vs. 30%). CONCLUSIONS: Based on its cost-effectiveness, reusability, and training effectiveness, this paracentetic suprapubic cystostomy training model is able to achieve goals in teaching practice quickly and easily. Use of the model should be encouraged for training senior medical students and resident physicians who may be expected to perform emergent suprapubic catheter insertion at some time.

A antiga técnica em um novo estilo: desenvolvendo habilidades procedimentais em paracentese em simulador de baixo custo / The old one technique in a new style: developing procedural skills in paracentesis in a low cost simulator model

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Paracentesis is a routine medical procedure quite relevant in clinical practice. There are risks of complications related to paracentesis, so it is essential a proper trainee for the younger practicer. OBJECTIVE: The article describes the construction and the application of a low cost paracentesis simulator for undergraduate medical students and it also describes the perception of students about the simulator as well. METHODS: A low-cost model was developed by the Program of Tutorial Education for training medical students during three editions of an undergraduate theoretical-practical course of bedside invasive procedures. The authors constructed a model from very low-cost and easily accessible materials, such as commercial dummy plus wooden and plastic supports to represent the abdomen, synthetic leather fabric for the skin, upholstered sponge coated with plastic film to represent the abdominal wall and procedure gloves with water mixed with paint to simulate the ascitic fluid and other abdominal structures. One semi-structured form with quantitative and qualitative questions was applied for medical specialists and students in order to evaluate the paracentesis simulator. RESULTS: The paracentesis model has an initial cost of US$22.00 / R$70.00 for 30 simulations and US$16.00 / R$50.00 for every 30 additional simulations. It was tested by eight medical doctors, including clinical medicine, general surgeons and gastroenterologists, and all of them fully agreed that the procedure should be performed on the manikin before in the actual patient, and they all approved the model for undergraduate education. A total of 87 undergraduate medical students (56% male) individually performed the procedure in our simulator. Regarding the steps of the procedure, 80.5% identified the appropriate place for needle puncture and 75.9% proceeded with the Z or traction technique. An amount of 80.5% of the students were able to aspire the fluid and another 80.5% of students correctly performed the bandage at the end of the procedure. All the students fully agreed that simulated paracentesis training should be performed prior to performing the procedure on a real patient. CONCLUSION: The elaboration of a teaching model in paracentesis provided unique experience to authors and participants, allowing a visible correlation of the human anatomy with synthetic materials, deepening knowledge of this basic science and developing creative skills, which enhances clinical practice. There are no data on the use of paracentesis simulation models in Brazilian universities. However, the procedure is quite accomplished in health services and needs to be trained. The model described above was presented as qualified with low cost and easily reproducible.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A paracentese é um procedimento médico de rotina bastante relevante na prática clínica. Devido à sua importância na assistência médica diária e seus riscos de complicações, o treino do procedimento é essencial em currículos médicos reconhecidos. OBJETIVO: Descrever a construção de um simulador de paracentese de baixo custo, destacando a percepção de estudantes sobre o seu uso para treinamento na graduação em Medicina. MÉTODOS: Um modelo de baixo custo foi desenvolvido pelo Programa de Educação Tutorial para treinamento de estudantes de Medicina durante três edições de um curso teórico-prático de procedimentos invasivos à beira do leito. Os autores construíram um modelo a partir de materiais comuns e de fácil acesso, como manequim comercial e suportes de madeira e plástico para representar o abdômen, tecido de couro sintético para a pele, esponja revestida com filme plástico para representar a parede abdominal e luvas de procedimento com água misturada com tinta para simular o líquido ascítico e outras estruturas abdominais. Para avaliar o modelo, aplicou-se um questionário semiestruturado com aspectos quantitativos e qualitativos para médicos especialistas e estudantes. RESULTADOS: O modelo para paracentese tem orçamento inicial de US$22.00 / R$70,00 para 30 simulações e US$16.00 / R$50,00 para cada 30 simulações adicionais. Foi testado por oito especialistas (clínico geral, cirurgião geral e gastroenterologista), dos quais quatro são gastroenterologistas, e todos concordaram plenamente que o procedimento deve ser realizado no manequim antes de ser feito no paciente real, e todos eles aprovaram o modelo para o ensino de graduação. Durante as edições do curso, um total de 87 estudantes de graduação em Medicina (56% homens) realizaram individualmente o procedimento. Em relação às etapas do procedimento, do total de alunos avaliados, 80,5% identificaram o local apropriado para a punção e 75,9% procederam com a técnica Z ou tração. Ao final, 80,5% dos alunos conseguiram aspirar ao conteúdo ascítico, com 80,5% realizando o curativo e finalizando o procedimento. Todos os alunos concordaram plenamente que o treinamento com paracentese simulada deve ser feito antes de se realizar o procedimento em um paciente real. CONCLUSÃO: A elaboração de um modelo de ensino em paracentese proporcionou experiência única a autores e participantes, permitindo uma visível correlação da anatomia humana com materiais sintéticos, aprofundando o conhecimento desta ciência básica e desenvolvendo habilidades criativas, o que potencializa a prática clínica. Não há dados sobre o uso de modelos de simulação de paracentese em universidades brasileiras. No entanto, o procedimento é bastante realizado nos serviços de saúde e precisa ser treinado. O modelo descrito acima foi apresentado como de qualidade, baixo custo e de fácil reprodutibilidade, sendo inédito no cenário da educação médica nacional, mostrando-se uma ferramenta complementar de ensino na graduação e preparando os alunos para o procedimento in vivo.

Terapia intraperitoneal paliativa en ascitis maligna fîlcrossMark refractaria / Intraperitoneal palliative therapy in refractory malignant ascites

Resumen El tratamiento convencional de la ascitis maligna refractaria es un reto oncológico pues provee mejoría sintomática poco duradera. La terapia intraperitoneal ha sido evaluada principalmente en reportes y series de casos, y en algunos ensayos clínicos, estudiados principalmente en la ascitis por cáncer ovárico y gastrointestinal. Esta terapia incluye: isótopos radioactivos, quimioterapia con hipertermia y sin esta, terapia inmunológica, biológica y otras. Los tratamientos más exitosos con respuestas variables, y aunque la comparación directa no es posible, son: la quimioterapia intraperitoneal hipertérmica (respuesta global entre 85,7% y 100%) y el catumaxomab, que frente a la paracentesis demostró una supervivencia libre de punción de 46 vs 11 días (HR 0,254) y una mediana a la próxima paracentesis de 77 vs 13 días (HR 0,169), con impacto positivo en la calidad de vida, principal fin en el escenario paliativo. La investigación en este campo continúa buscando resultados más duraderos, seguros y costo-efectivos.

Abstract Conventional treatment of refractory malignant ascites is an oncological challenge since it provides little lasting symptomatic improvement. Intraperitoneal therapy, evaluated mainly through series and case reports, and some clinical trials include the use of radioisotopes, chemotherapy, with and without hyperthermia, immunological and biological therapy and others. It has been studied mainly in ascites from ovarian and gastrointestinal cancer. With variable response rates, and although direct comparison is not possible, the most successfully treatments are hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (overall response rate between 85.7% and 100%), and catumaxomab, which compared to paracentesis, demonstrated a puncture-free survival of 46 vs. 11 days (HR 0.254) and a median time to next paracentesis of 77 vs. 13 days (HR 0.169). This had a positive impact on quality of life, which is the main goal in the palliative setting. Research in this field continues looking for more lasting, safe, and cost-effective results.

Paracentesis: datos sobre la correcta utilización / Paracentesis, Appropriate Technique and Clinical Application

La paracentesis es un procedimiento con fines diagnósticos en pacientes con ascitis de novo. Permite detectar la presencia de infección en pacientes con ascitis de larga data. En casos de ascitis a tensión, ascitis refractaria y disnea por restricción es ampliamente utilizada como terapia. El conocimiento general de este procedimiento y de los pormenores de su técnica son de gran importancia, ya que su utilización viene en aumento en los servicios de urgencias, hospitalización general e incluso, en la unidad de cuidados intensivos. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior, se hace hincapié en la correcta utilización de esta técnica por parte del personal médico. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura científica en las bases de datos Pubmed y SciELO de artículos con una estrategia definida, limitada a idiomas español e inglés, utilizando una combinación de términos libres y MeSH que incluyeron paracentesis, ascitis, cirrosis hepática y malignidad.

Paracentesis is a diagnostic procedure used in patients with new-onset ascites. It can detect the presence of infection in patients with longstanding ascites. In cases of tense ascites, refractory ascites or restriction dyspnea it is widely used for therapeutical purposes. General knowledge of this procedure is of great importance as well as a detailed understanding of the technique, because its use is increasing in the emergency department, general hospitalization, and even in the intensive care unit. Taking all this into consideration we aim to emphasize on the proper use of this technique by the medical staff.

Clinical Features of Refractory Ascites in Outpatients

OBJECTIVES: To present the clinical features and outcomes of outpatients who suffer from refractory ascites. METHODS: This prospective observational study consecutively enrolled patients with cirrhotic ascites who submitted to a clinical evaluation, a sodium restriction diet, biochemical blood tests, 24 hour urine tests and an ascitic fluid analysis. All patients received a multidisciplinary evaluation and diuretic treatment. Patients who did not respond to the diuretic treatment were controlled by therapeutic serial paracentesis, and a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was indicated for patients who required therapeutic serial paracentesis up to twice a month. RESULTS: The most common etiology of cirrhosis in both groups was alcoholism [49 refractory (R) and 11 non-refractory ascites (NR)]. The majority of patients in the refractory group had Child-Pugh class B cirrhosis (p=0.034). The nutritional assessment showed protein-energy malnutrition in 81.6% of the patients in the R group and 35.5% of the patients in the NR group, while hepatic encephalopathy, hernia, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, upper digestive hemorrhage and type 2 hepatorenal syndrome were present in 51%, 44.9%, 38.8%, 38.8% and 26.5% of the patients in the R group and 9.1%, 18.2%, 0%, 0% and 0% of the patients in the NR group, respectively (p=0.016, p=0.173, p=0.012, p=0.012, and p=0.100, respectively). Mortality occurred in 28.6% of the patients in the R group and in 9.1% of the patients in the NR group (p=0.262). CONCLUSION: Patients with refractory ascites were malnourished, suffered from hernias, had a high prevalence of complications and had a high postoperative death frequency, which was mostly due to infectious processes.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Procedural Techniques for Large Volume Paracentesis

ABSTRACT Introduction. The aim of this study is to investigate large volume therapeutic paracentesis using either a z-tract or axial (coxial) technique in a randomized controlled trial. Materials and methods. In this randomized, single blind study, patients with cirrhosis undergoing outpatient therapeutic paracentesis were randomized to the z-tract or the modified angular (coaxial) needle insertion technique. Subject and procedure characteristics were compared between the groups with ascites leakage as quantified by need for dressing changes with standardized sized gauze pads as a primary endpoint and subject procedural discomfort, operator preference, and procedure complications as secondary endpoints. Results. 72 paracenteses were performed during the study period: 34 to the z-tract and 38 to the coaxial insertion technique. Following exclusions, a total of 61 paracenteses were analyzed: 30 using the z-tract technique and 31 using the coaxial technique. There were equal rates of post-procedural leakage of ascites between groups (13% in both groups, p = 1.00). Using the visual analog scale (0 - 100), there was a statistically significant increase in the subject reported pain score with the z-tract compared with the coaxial method [26.4 (95% CI 18.7 - 34.1) vs. 17.2 (95% CI 10.6 - 23.8), p = 0.04]. Mean physician rated procedure difficulty (1 - 5) was significantly higher for the z-tract vs. the coaxial technique [2.1 (95% CI 1.6 - 2.6) vs. 1.5 (95% CI 1.2 - 1.8), p = 0.04]. Conclusion. When compared to the z-tract technique, the coaxial insertion technique is superior during large volume paracentesis in cirrhosis patients.

Diseño e implementación de un modelo de enseñanza en ambiente simulado de paracentesis abdomina / Design and implementation of an environment teaching model simulated abdominal paracentesis

Resumen: El aprendizaje de los estudiantes de Medicina de Pregrado en ambiente simulado constituye una alternativa en la obtención de competencias técnicas y no técnicas. Objetivo: Desarrollar un fantoma e implementar un taller modular de entrenamiento de paracentesis abdominal en ambiente simulado para estudiantes de Medicina. Métodos: Se diseñaron y desarrollaron modelos para la realización de paracentesis abdominal en la Escuela de Diseño de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC) y se implementó un taller para alumnos de 4to año de Medicina de la PUC, utilizando un enfoque constructivista, sesiones de entrenamiento simulado con debriefing basadas en el modelo plus-delta y evaluación pre y post-procedimiento siguiendo los principios de evaluación para el aprendizaje. Resultados: Se desarrollaron 3 prototipos hasta llegar a un modelo definitivo de alta fidelidad basado en la percepción de 20 expertos. 237 alumnos asistieron a un taller de paracentesis abdominal en el Centro de Cirugía Experimental y Simulación Universidad Católica (UC). Este consistió en una actividad práctica grupal (7-8 alumnos por sesión) que incluyó: una evaluación pre-sesión, un vídeo instruccional, una demostración en tiempo real en el fantoma por parte de un docente, la realización guiada del procedimiento por parte de los alumnos, debriefing y cierre de la sesión. Conclusiones: Un modelo de enseñanza en ambiente simulado es posible de ser diseñado e implementado exitosamente en un centro educacional para estudiantes de Medicina de Pregrado. Este taller de paracentesis permite entrenar a los alumnos en la realización de paracentesis abdominal en un ambiente seguro para los alumnos y pacientes y puede ser implementado a bajo costo en otros centros o instituciones. (AU)

Abstract: Simulated environments are an option in the learning process of undergraduate medical students in order to obtain technical and non-technical. Aim: To develop a mannequin for abdominal paracentesis and the implementation of a training workshop to perform abdominal paracentesis in a simulated environment for undergraduate medical students. Methods: The prototypes were designed and developed to perform abdominal paracentesis at the School of Design at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (PUC) and a workshop was implemented in a course with 4-year medical students at the PUC, using a constructivist approach and simulated training sessions and providing debriefing (based on plus-delta model) and pre-post training assessment following the principles of Assessment for Learning. Results: Three prototypes were developed until the final high-fidelity-mannequin was achieved. The abdominal paracentesis workshop was attended by 237 students at the Universidad Católica (UC) Experimental Surgery and Simulation Center. This was a hands-on group activity (7-8 students per session) including pre-session assessment, instructional video-tape, real-time demonstration of abdominal paracentesis procedure by the clinical teacher, followed by abdominal paracentesis performed by the students, debriefing and closing session. Conclusions: A teaching model in a simulated environment is feasible to be successfully designed and implemented in an educational center for undergraduate medical students. This workshop allows students training process to perform abdominal paracentesis in a safe environment for students and patients and it can be implemented in other centers or institutions with low cost.(AU)

Transtracheal puncture: a forgotten procedure

Transtracheal puncture has long been known as a safe, low-cost procedure. However, with the advent of bronchoscopy, it has largely been forgotten. Two researchers have suggested the use of α-amylase activity to diagnose salivary aspiration, but the normal values of this enzyme in tracheobronchial secretions are unknown. We aimed to define the normal values of α-amylase activity in tracheobronchial secretions and verify the rate of major complications of transtracheal puncture. From October 2009 to June 2011, we prospectively evaluated 118 patients without clinical or radiological signs of salivary aspiration who underwent transtracheal puncture before bronchoscopy. The patients were sedated with a solution of lidocaine and diazepam until they reached a Ramsay sedation score of 2 or 3. We then cleaned the cervical region and anesthetized the superficial planes with lidocaine. Next, we injected 10 mL of 2% lidocaine into the tracheobronchial tree. Finally, we injected 10 mL of normal saline into the tracheobronchial tree and immediately aspirated the saline with maximum vacuum pressure to collect samples for measurement of the α-amylase level. The α-amylase level mean ± SE, median, and range were 1914 ± 240, 1056, and 24-10,000 IU/L, respectively. No major complications (peripheral desaturation, subcutaneous emphysema, cardiac arrhythmia, or hemoptysis) occurred among 118 patients who underwent this procedure. Transtracheal aspiration is a safe, low-cost procedure. We herein define for the first time the normal α-amylase levels in the tracheobronchial secretions of humans.

Perfil microbiológico e de resistência bacteriana das peritonites bacterianas espontâneas do Hospital Geral de Caxias do Sul / Microbiologic and bacterial resistance profile of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis of Hospital Geral of Caxias do Sul

Introdução: A peritonite bacteriana espontânea (PBE) é uma das infecções mais frequentes nos pacientes cirróticos, acarretando uma alta morbimortalidade. Métodos: Estudo transversal, retrospectivo, descritivo. Feita revisão dos prontuários de líquidos de ascite com cultura positiva para PBE. Resultados: Os bacilos gram-negativos constituíram 57,1% das culturas positivas, sendo que E. coli foi responsável por 28,5%, seguida por Klebsiella sp. (14,2%). Cocos gram positivos corresponderam a 38% e, destes, os mais incidentes foram Enterococcus sp. (23,8%) e Streptococcus sp. (9,5%). Conclusão: A amostra analisada apresentou maior prevalência de enterococcus em comparação com o descrito na literatura mundial. Devido à mudança do perfil microbiológico, percebe-se a necessidade de uma instituição analisar o seu perfil microbiológico, para melhor assistência aos seus usuários (AU)

Introduction: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is one of the most common infections in cirrhotic patients, leading to high morbidity and mortality. Methods: Cross-sectional, retrospective, descriptive study. A review of records of ascites fluid with positive culture for SBP was carried out. Results: Gram-negative bacilli constituted 57.1% positive cultures, and E. coli accounted for 28.5%, followed by Klebsiella sp (14.2%). Gram positive cocci accounted for 38%, and of these the most frequent ones were Enterococcus sp. (23.8%) and Streptococcus sp. (9.5%). Conclusion: The sample showed a higher prevalence of enterococci as compared with what is described in world literature. Due to the change in the microbiological profile, we highlight the need for an institution to analyze its microbiological profile, for better assistance to its members (AU)

Subconjunctival and topical application of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in rabbits / Uso tópico e subconjuntival de ativador de plasminogênio tecidual recombinante em coelhos

Purpose: To quantify fibrin degradation products after topical and subconjunctival administration of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator in rabbits. Methods: Fibrin formation was induced in the anterior chamber in 25 rabbits. Subsequently, five rabbits received an injection of r-TPA (positive control) in the anterior chamber, another 10 received a subconjunctival injection of r-TPA, and the remaining 10 received instillations of topical r-TPA. Afterwards, samples of aqueous humor were collected and semi-quantitative analysis of fibrin degradation products (FDP) was performed. Results: No statistical differences were noted between the treatment and control groups at any time point. Fibrin degradation products semi-quantification showed statistical improvement in the control group and the subconjunctival group. Conclusion: Fibrin degradation products were observed in the anterior chamber after subconjunctival administration of r-TPA. However, it was probably not sufficient to cause fibrin degradation. Topical r-TPA did not effectively absorb anterior chamber fibrin. .

Objetivo: Quantificar produtos de degradação de fibrina (PDF) após uso tópico e subconjunctival de ativador de plasminogênio tecidual recombinante (r-TPA) em coelhos. Métodos: Formação de fibrina foi induzida na câmara anterior em 25 coelhos. Cinco coelhos foram submetidos a injeção intracameral de r-TPA (controle positivo). Dez coelhos foram submetidos a injeção subconjuntival de r-TPA e dez coelhos foram submetidos a instilação tópica de r-TPA. Amostras de humor aquoso foram coletados e uma análise quantitativa dos produtos de degradação de fibrina foi realizada. Resultados: Não foi observado diferença estatisticamente significativa na degradação de fibrina em nenhum dos momentos estudados quando comparados com o controle. Porém foi observado diferença estatisticamente significante na quantificação do produtos de degradação de fibrina no grupo controle e no grupo subconjuntival. Conclusão: Produtos de degradação de fibrina foi observado nas amostras do grupo subconjunctival, porém, provavelmente não foi suficiente para degradar a fibrin presente. r-TPA tópico não foi efetivo em absorver fibrina na câmara anterior. .

Effectiveness and satisfaction evaluation of patients submitted to TMJ arthrocenthesis: a case series

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and level of satisfaction of patients who underwent TMJ arthrocentesis under local anesthesia by considering the following parameters: joint pain, mouth opening, mastication, and satisfaction. Fourteen patients (13 women and one man; mean age, 37.6 years with TMJ arthralgia were selected. The patients underwent arthrocentesis under local anesthesia, and pain intensity was measured before, during, and 1 year after treatment using a visual analog pain scale (VAS 0–100 mm). A Likert scale was used to assess patients’ opinion regarding the improvement of mouth opening and mastication. After treatment, patients were questioned on levels of satisfaction provided by arthrocentesis in regard to their quality of life. At the end of 1 year, patients showed a marked improvement in their pain clinical picture (p < 0.0001). Mouth opening and mastication, evaluated separately and then correlated (R2 = 0.925, p < 0.0001), also showed a marked improvement. When questioned, all patients reported being satisfied with the treatment outcome.

Metástasis cutánea de adenocarcinoma secundaria a paracentesis / Skin metastasis from adenocarcinoma secondary to parecentesis

Las metástasis cutáneas constituyen una entidad infrecuente que permite diagnosticar la existencia de una neoplasia maligna de órganos internos o cutánea, su diseminación o su recurrencia, siendo en todos los casos un signo de mal pronóstico. Presentamos el caso de un paciente con metástasis de adeno carcinoma en piel de abdomen tras implantación de células tumorales luego de una paracentesis diagnóstica

Cutaneous metastases are a rare entity that allow diagnose malignant neoplasm of skin or internal organs, dissemination or recurrence. It ́s a sign of poor prognosis in all cases. A patient with metastatic adenocarcinoma in abdominal skin after tumor cell implantation post diagnostic paracentesis is reported.

Clinical and laboratorial features of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in southern Brazil / Características clínicas e laboratoriais da peritonite bacteriana espontânea no sul do Brasil

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a severe complication that occurs in 8-27% of hospitalized patients with liver cirrhosis and ascites, with high mortality rates. This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics associated with SBP. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study, conducted in a public university. METHODS: The study consecutively included individuals with liver cirrhosis and ascites between September 2009 and March 2012. Forty-five patients were included: mean age 53.2 ± 12.3 years, 82.2% male, 73.8% Caucasian, mean Model of End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score of 19.5 ± 7.2, and 33.3% with SBP. The subjects were divided into two groups: SBP and controls. RESULTS: Comparison between individuals with SBP and controls showed that those with SBP had lower mean prothrombin activity time (36.1 ± 16.0% versus 47.1 ± 17.2%; P = 0.044) and lower median serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) (1.2 versus 1.7, P = 0.045). There was a tendency towards higher mean MELD in the SBP group, not significant (22.2 ± 7.6 versus 17.9 ± 6.7; P = 0.067). There was a strong positive correlation between the neutrophil count in ascitic fluid and serum leukocyte count (r = 0.501; P = 0.001) and a negative correlation between the neutrophil count in ascitic fluid with prothrombin activity time (r = -0.385; P = 0.011). CONCLUSION: A few characteristics are associated with the presence of SBP, especially liver dysfunction, SAAG and peripheral leukocytosis. .

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Peritonite bacteriana espontânea (PBE) é uma complicação grave que ocorre em 8-27% dos pacientes hospitalizados com cirrose hepática e ascite, e apresenta altas taxas de mortalidade. O objetivo deste estudo é identificar as características clínicas associadas à PBE. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal, conduzido em uma universidade pública. MÉTODOS: O estudo incluiu, consecutivamente, indivíduos com cirrose hepática e ascite entre setembro 2009 e março 2012. Foram incluídos 45 indivíduos com média de idade de 53,2 ± 12,3 anos, sendo 82,2% homens, 73,8% brancos, com MELD (Modelo para Doença Hepática Terminal) de 19,5 ± 7,2, e 33,3% com PBE. Os indivíduos foram divididos em dois grupos: PBE e controles. RESULTADOS: Quando se compararam os indivíduos com PBE aos controles, observou-se menor média de tempo de atividade da protrombina (TAP; 36,1 ± 16,0% versus 47,1 ± 17,2%; P = 0,044) e menor mediana de gradiente albumina soro-ascite (GASA; 1,2 versus 1,7; P = 0,045). Houve tendência do grupo com PBE de apresentar maior média de MELD, sem significância estatística (22,2 ± 7,6 versus 17,9 ± 6,7; P = 0,067). Foi observada forte correlação positiva entre neutrófilos do líquido ascítico e contagem sérica de leucócitos (r = 0,501; P = 0,001) e correlação negativa de neutrófilos do líquido ascítico com TAP (r = -0,385; P = 0,011). CONCLUSÃO: Poucas características estão associadas à presença de PBE, em especial a disfunção hepática, o GASA e a leucocitose periférica. .

Evaluación de la realización de paracentesis en pacientes cirróticos ingresados a dos servicios de medicina interna de hospitales mediana complejidad / Assessment of the fulfillment of paracentesis in cirrotic patients admited in two services of internal medicine in hospitals of median complexity

La peritonitis bacteriana espontánea (PBE) es una complicación severa de la cirrosis hepática (CH). Su pronóstico depende del momento de inicio de la terapia para lo que se requiere un diagnóstico oportuno. Objetivo: Evaluar la realización de paracentesis diagnóstica (PD) en cirróticos con ascitis durante su hospitalización. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico y prospectivo, realizado en un período de 11 meses consecutivos. Resultados: Se registraron 92 ingresos, el promedio de edad fue de 60,3 años (DE 11,7), correspondiendo un 57,6% a hombres, la etiología de CH más frecuente fue alcohólica (48,9%). Se realizaron 40 PD (43,5%), de ellas 35% con PBE positiva. Del total de PD, un 47,5% se efectuaron al ingreso y/o al presentar signos de alarma. El promedio de días de hospitalización fue mayor en aquellos en que se realizó la PD tardíamente. El MELD (Model for the End stage Liver Disease) tanto al ingreso como egreso es significativamente mayor en los pacientes puncionados al ingreso. Conclusión: Se realiza PD en menos de la mitad de los cirróticos hospitalizados, siendo su realización oportuna solo en 1 de cada 5 de los ingresos. El realizar PD en el momento adecuado disminuye los días de hospitalización y morbimortalidad.

The Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP) is a severe complication of cirrhosis. The prognosis depends on the time of initiation of therapy that is required for early diagnosis. Objective: To evaluate the performance of diagnostic paracentesis (DP) in cirrhotic patients with ascites during hospitalization. Materials and methods: An observational, analytical, prospective, study conducted during October 2009 to June 2010. Results: There were 92 income, average age was 60.3 years (SD 11.7), corresponding to 57.6% men, the most common etiology of CH was alcohol (48.9%). There were 40 PD (43.5%), of which 35% positive SBP. Of the DP, 47.5% were performed on admission and / or submission of warning signs. The average period of hospitalization was higher in those who underwent late DP. The MELD score both at admission and discharge was significantly higher in patients on admission punctured. Conclusion: DP was done in less than half of hospitalized cirrhotic, and its timely completion only 1 in 5 of revenues. The DP perform at the right time reduces hospital days.